Risk Factors Associated with Impaction Colic in Horses at North Western Area of Libya

Colic is a serious clinical condition affecting the welfare and survival of horses at the studs worldwide. However little is known about the incidence or risk factors associated with this condition among different horse groups or populations in Libya. In this work, we assessed the risk factors associated with impaction colic in horses in western part of Libya. Diagnosis was based on clinical findings and rectal examination. A questionnaire was constructed to assess the risk factors. Data analysis was performed by logistic regression analysis. Eighty-three horses were showing signs of impaction colic. Final multivariate logistic regression model showed that there was a significant association between the occurrence of impaction colic and previous exposure to colic (p < 0.5 ; OR: 1.9; 95% CI: 7.5-8.9 ), Dental diseases (p < 0.05 ; OR: 3.2 95% CI:1.1-9.5), racing (p < 0.5 ; OR: 4.2 95% CI: 3.9-4.5 ), and breed (d < 0.05; OR: 86.9; 95% CI:2.3-3.2. The results of the present study indicate that managemental risk factors are the major risks for impaction colic in race horses. Identification of risk factors may assist the clinician to construct effective preventive measures.